Best
Private Colleges in Vermont in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Vermont combines practical coursework with the state's small-business and outdoor-industry perspective. Students typically study accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and data analytics, often completing internships or projects. Popular options include the University of Vermont, Champlain College, Saint Michael's College, and Norwich University. Graduates may pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, accountant, or sales representative across nonprofits, corporations, government agencies, and local ventures.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Vermont combines coursework in developmental psychology, social behavior, cognitive processes, research methods, statistics, and abnormal psychology. Students can explore mental health through internships and faculty-led research at colleges including the University of Vermont, Middlebury College, Norwich University, Champlain College, and Saint Michael's College. A bachelor's degree may lead to roles in case management, human services, recruiting, or behavioral support; becoming a licensed psychologist typically requires graduate study, supervised experience, and state licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Vermont combines technical foundations with opportunities to explore the state. Programs commonly cover programming, data structures, algorithms, computer systems, databases, software engineering, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build skills through projects, internships, and research. Popular choices include the University of Vermont, Champlain College, Norwich University, Middlebury College, and Bennington College. Graduates pursue roles as software developers, data analysts, systems administrators, cybersecurity specialists, or web developers. Local and remote employers offer opportunities.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Vermont typically combines classroom learning with supervised fieldwork. Courses often cover counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and research methods, followed by a practicum or internship. Popular Vermont options include the University of Vermont, Saint Michael's College, and Vermont State University. Graduates may pursue work as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance-use counselors, career counselors, or case managers. Clinical roles generally require supervised experience and licensure.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Vermont combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Programs commonly cover anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, maternal-child care, mental health, and public health. Students develop communication, assessment, and patient-safety skills. Vermont colleges offering nursing study include the University of Vermont, Norwich University, and Vermont State University. Graduates may qualify for registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, schools, or community health organizations across the state.

Best Colleges in Vermont Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $48,175, compared with $66,708 at schools in the top 10% of the ranking.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid across the schools, while the average at top-10% schools is 59.14%.
• The average acceptance rate is 59.14%. Schools receive an average of 3,998.29 applicants, compared with 8,203.8 applicants at top-10% schools. The median number of applicants is 1,281 men and 1,854 women.
• The average SAT score is 1,455 and the average ACT score is 33.
• The average number of enrolled students is 1,526.43; the average numbers of enrolled men and women are 159.57 and 132.43, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 62.14%, compared with 80.2% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 64% for men and 68% for women.
• Four institutions offer associate's degrees, 7 offer bachelor's degrees, 8 offer master's degrees, and 2 offer doctor's degrees.
• Seven schools are coeducational; 0 are schools for men and 0 are schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, applicant and enrollment figures, academic offerings, and graduation outcomes. In particular, consider how the overall averages compare with those of top-10% schools, and weigh the reported graduation-rate differences for men and women against your own priorities.

How much does studying at a college in Vermont cost?

The average total cost reported for studying in Vermont is $50,442.75. This gives you a practical starting point, but your actual cost will depend on the college, program, residency status, and housing choices. At the University of Vermont in Burlington, for instance, compare campus expenses with options at Champlain College, Norwich University, or Middlebury College; each school sets its own charges and aid packages.

• Average tuition and fees: $52,601.75.
• Average room and board: $17,973.
• Average books and supplies: $1,280.

Notably, tuition and fees exceed the reported total average, so these figures do not reconcile and should not be summed as a single budget. Ask each Vermont college for a personalized cost-of-attendance estimate and financial-aid review. The good news is that comparing aid, commuting, and housing choices can make planning feel more manageable and help you find a path that fits your goals, with confidence and less financial stress.

How long does it take to finish college in Vermont?

In Vermont, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes two. At the University of Vermont in Burlington, Middlebury College, or Champlain College, your actual timeline depends on major requirements, course availability, and whether you study full time. Vermont State University also offers pathways suited to different schedules. The average graduation rate is 62.14%; among the top 10% of schools, the average is 80.2%. Rates average 60.43% for men and 63.71% for women, showing that graduation outcomes vary.

You may finish sooner by transferring eligible credits, using Advanced Placement or dual-enrollment coursework, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated program where available. Ask admissions advisers at Vermont colleges to evaluate prior learning and map a realistic course plan before enrolling. These options can reduce time and tuition, while keeping your goal achievable and making progress feel motivating with steady, supported progress.

Salary

College graduates in Vermont earn a median alumni salary of $48,297. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median rises to $55,044 - a hopeful benchmark if you're considering your next step after college.

Your own earnings will depend on your field, experience, and where you work. Whether you study at the University of Vermont, Middlebury College, Norwich University, or Champlain College, comparing programs and career opportunities can help you choose a path that fits your goals.

• Median alumni salary: $48,297
• Median alumni salary for graduates of top 10% schools: $55,044

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Vermont?

Beauty is subjective, but Middlebury College is a strong contender. Its campus combines historic architecture and leafy grounds with views of the Green Mountains, creating a memorable New England setting. For a Vermont student, the appeal is not just the scenery: the college's small-town location also puts outdoor recreation and the community of Middlebury close at hand.

What is the most selective college in Vermont?

Middlebury College is generally considered Vermont's most selective college, based on its low admission rate compared with other colleges in the state. Admission rates vary from year to year, so they are not a guarantee of your chances. Still, students who enjoy challenging academics may find its rigorous environment and close-knit campus especially appealing.

What is the richest university in Vermont?

If "richest" means the size of its endowment, Middlebury College is generally the leading institution in Vermont. An endowment is a pool of invested funds that supports a college over time; it is not the same as money freely available for spending. For prospective students, a larger endowment can help support academic programs, campus resources, and financial aid.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Vermont Ranking in 2026-2027

Bennington College offers Vermont students a small, highly personal liberal arts setting, with an enrolled student body of 873 and opportunities to shape an interdisciplinary education. Its 45% acceptance rate may appeal to applicants seeking a selective but accessible college. The graduation rate is 71%, while total study cost is $65,398 and median alumni salary is $25,815. Located in Bennington, the college suits learners drawn to arts, close faculty engagement, and the distinctive pace of studying in Vermont's Green Mountains.

Norwich University gives Vermont-bound students a career-oriented education at a historic private university in Northfield, known for its military and civilian student communities. It enrolls 3,234 students, and its 74% acceptance rate suggests broader access than some selective colleges. Norwich reports a 60% graduation rate, a total study cost of $46,860, and median alumni earnings of $50,597. Its campus offers a distinctly structured college experience, with Vermont's rural setting and outdoor recreation close at hand throughout the four changing seasons.

Middlebury College combines a residential liberal arts education with nationally recognized language programs and a picturesque campus in Vermont's Champlain Valley. Its 2,691 enrolled students learn in a close-knit setting, while an 11% acceptance rate makes admission highly competitive. The college's graduation rate is 91%, the highest among these five schools. Total study cost is $67,100, and median alumni salary is $52,950. For students seeking rigorous academics, environmental access, and a close connection to Vermont communities, Middlebury stands out for learners.

Sterling College-Vermont is a very small, environmentally focused college in Craftsbury Common, offering an intentionally hands-on education centered on ecological thinking and sustainable living. Its 58 enrolled students can expect a notably intimate campus community. The school's acceptance rate is 67%, graduation rate is 32%, and total study cost is $40,560. Median alumni salary data is unavailable, so prospective students should compare likely career outcomes directly. Rural Vermont's landscapes provide an especially immediate setting for field-based learning and outdoor study.

Saint Michael's College is a Catholic liberal arts college in Colchester, near Burlington, giving Vermont students access to both a campus community and the state's largest city. It enrolls 1,183 students and has an 85% acceptance rate, alongside a 73% graduation rate. Total study cost is $48,950, and median alumni salary is $45,997. Students may value its broad undergraduate education, campus traditions, and location near Lake Champlain, local internships, and Vermont's outdoor and cultural activities nearby throughout the academic year.